A healthy body weight and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

A healthy weight can help you have normal ovulation and menstrual cycles and manage many symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A healthy weight helps keep insulin and "male" hormone (androgen) levels within normal ranges, which reduces your symptoms and prevents serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.

A healthy weight is one that is right for your body type and height and is based on your body mass index (BMI) and your waist circumference. To calculate your BMI and waist circumference, see:

Credits

Author	Bets Davis, MFA
Author	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Samuel S. Thatcher, MD, PhD - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology
Last Updated	January 23, 2008